Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are a quick and easy way to enjoy homemade pickles without the need for canning. These sweet and tangy pickles are made with thinly sliced cucumbers, onions, and a flavorful brine of vinegar, sugar, and spices. The beauty of this recipe is that it requires no cooking or long preservation process—simply mix, refrigerate, and enjoy! The result is a jar full of crisp, refreshing pickles that make the perfect addition to sandwiches, burgers, or as a snack on their own. These pickles can be ready in as little as 24 hours and stay fresh in the fridge for up to a week.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups thinly sliced cucumbers (about 2-3 medium cucumbers)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1/2 tsp celery seeds
- 1/4 tsp turmeric (for color)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cucumbers and Onion: In a large bowl, combine the sliced cucumbers and onions. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt, toss to combine, and let sit for 10 minutes. This helps draw out excess water from the cucumbers, ensuring they stay crisp.
- Make the Brine: In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, water, mustard seeds, celery seeds, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once the brine is simmering, remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
- Combine the Vegetables and Brine: After the cucumbers have rested for 10 minutes, drain off any excess liquid. Pack the cucumber and onion slices into a clean, quart-sized jar or airtight container. Pour the cooled brine over the vegetables, making sure they are fully submerged. If needed, press the cucumbers down to keep them immersed in the brine.
- Refrigerate: Seal the jar or container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow the flavors to develop. The pickles will continue to absorb the brine and get better as they sit, but they can be eaten within a day or two for the best flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy your refrigerator bread and butter pickles as a refreshing side dish, sandwich topping, or snack. They’ll stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.
Refrigerator Bread and Butter Pickles are the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of pickles without the long wait or complicated process of canning. Sweet, tangy, and crisp, they’re a simple treat that will elevate any meal. Plus, with no cooking involved, they’re a breeze to prepare!
